For the sixth time in NHL history, the Carolina Hurricanes and New Jersey Devils are set to clash in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Their history is notable, with Carolina winning their last four playoff encounters, including a five-game series victory in the second round in 2023.
This Metropolitan Division matchup became inevitable as the Washington Capitals secured the division lead early in 2025. Despite some seeding swaps between the Devils and Hurricanes, the landscape of the division remained largely unchanged in the latter half of the season.
However, expectations for both teams are significantly different, adding intrigue to this first-round series. Here’s a preview of what to expect as the Hurricanes and Devils face off.
HEAD-TO-HEAD RECORDS
Carolina Hurricanes: 2-2-0
New Jersey Devils: 2-2-0
SERIES PREVIEW
To understand what might unfold in April, it`s important to consider March. Both teams faced challenges that month, and their responses could shape this series.
The Hurricanes have been playoff-bound all season, overcoming potential setbacks after a high-profile but unsuccessful trade. They finished strong, reaffirming their contender status.
Consistency has been Carolina`s strength, contrasting with New Jersey`s season.
The Devils aimed to be serious contenders this year, bringing in a new coach, Sheldon Keefe, and goalie, Jacob Markstrom, with high playoff aspirations. They started strong, ranking high in the Eastern Conference and boasting a potent offense and solid defense.
Injuries to key players like Markstrom, Jack Hughes, and Dougie Hamilton hampered their progress, especially in the second half of the season. While Hughes is out for the season, Hamilton has returned for Game 1.
The Devils have struggled offensively and in wins since mid-season. Facing Carolina`s strong defense presents a tough challenge, especially with key players missing.
However, New Jersey excels on special teams, particularly on the power play, which is significantly better than Carolina`s. Both teams have strong penalty kills, with New Jersey ranking second in the league.
ADVANCED STATS (5-on-5)
REGULAR SEASON TEAM STATS
Hurricanes X-Factor: Jaccob Slavin
Carolina has many strengths, including emerging young stars like Logan Stankoven and Jackson Blake. However, their foundation is their defense, led by Jaccob Slavin. He plays significant minutes and is crucial to their league-leading shot suppression and penalty kill. His role will be vital against the Devils` strong power play.
Devils X-Factor: Jacob Markstrom
Goaltending is always critical in playoffs, especially when key players are injured. The Devils acquired veteran Jacob Markstrom to solidify their goaltending. His performance will be crucial to their playoff hopes.
Markstrom was strong in the first half of the season but has seen less consistent results since returning from injury. For the Devils to succeed, they need Markstrom to perform at a high level and potentially steal games.
